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Blood Bond	By : Hikari86 Category: +A through F > Dragon Age (all) > Dragon Age (all) Views: 4278 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: Bioware owns everything Dragon Age. I claim no ownership and make no money/profit.

Chapter List
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Home Again

It didn't take either of them long to gather their friends and start heading out. The only problem they had was deciding who Oghren would go with.
“I don't mind staying here,” the dwarf said as he downed the remains of the ale he was consuming. “This stuffs not that bad. I think I could get used to it.”
“Just come with me,” said Arawin. “In the alienage you can drink to your heart's content. Plus you'll get to meet my cousin, and she's just as big a drinker as I am. Can hold it better too.”
This made Oghren laugh. “Is that so? From what I've seen from you, you're not too bad. I think I will meet this cousin of yours. She sounds fun.”
“Just watch yourself,” Arawin said getting in his face. “You misstep yourself around her in any way and you'll have to answer to me. Got it?”
“Sure I do, boss lady. And you don't need to worry about a thing. If she's just as ugly as you, then I'll only be interested in her as a drinking buddy.”
“Good.” Although Arawin wasn't sure how to take that.
Once everything was determined, the two groups split and headed in their different directions. Arawin plowed her way out of the estate, making it hard for her group to keep up with her. Zelda went more slowly, stopping once they reached the Market District and smiling over at Alistair. “So where does she live, Alistair?”
“Where does who live?” asked Leliana.
“His sister.”
“You have a sister?” Wynne said surprised. “And how long have you known about this without telling us?”
“It's a long story,” Alistair tried to explain. “I've known about her for awhile, but it's really only now could I mention her to see if we had time to meet with her.” Alistair swallowed hard and turned to Zelda. “You're not thinking of going now, are you?”
“There's no better time,” she said. “Come on, Alistair! This'll be fun. We'll all go and see your sister together. The four of us will be your support group.”
“Yeah,” Leliana chimed in, going to Zelda's side. “This'll be really fun.”
“But... we don't have time, right? I mean, talking to the nobles is more important, yes?”
“Right now this is more important,” said Zelda as she took his arm and lead him through the market. Leliana took his other arm and helped.
“Come on, Alistair. It won't be that bad, I promise. You have all us women to support you.”
“Oh great,” Alistair said as he just realized it. “I'm completely surrounded by women again! How does this keep happening?”
“Funny,” Leliana chuckled. “Zevran wouldn't have seen it the same way.”
“I'm not Zevran.”
“No, you're not,” Zelda laughed as well. “But come on, it won't be that bad. This is a good thing. Now, where does she live?”
Alistair sighed. “Over there, I think.”
The women then pulled him forward with Wynne leading the way and Rupee barking excitedly from all sides. When they reached the house he had pointed out, they noticed a sign on the door that read: “Goldanna's Linen Wash”.
“I don't know about this,” said Alistair. “Maybe she's busy. We should come back later.” He tried to escape but Zelda and Leliana's grips kept him where he was.
“Alistair,” Wynne said standing in front of him. “If you don't go in there and see your sister, you'll regret it. What if something happened to her during the Blight and you never meet with her because you were too scared? Don't you think you'd feel horrible?”
Alistair lowered his head. “Yeah, I would. It's not that I don't want to see her, it's just... I don't know what to say, how to act. What does one do when finally meeting the family he's always wanted?”
“You just go in there and say 'hi',” said Leliana. “Introduce yourself and everything else should flow from there. I'm sure she'll be just as excited to meet you.”
“And besides, we'll be right behind you.” Zelda smiled at him and stroked his arm. She could see he was beginning to feel better. After smiling back at her, Alistair then focused on the door to the wash house and made his way through.
When inside, they found that the house doubled as both Goldanna's business as well as her home. All over the place were baskets and bags of cloth, some folded, some not. In a room opposite the front door, they could see the foot of a bed along with children toys. A bell had rung when they entered, causing someone to stir in the back room.
“I'll be right there,” a woman called.
“Uh... Hello?” said Alistair.
“Eh? You have linens to wash?” said the woman as she came around the corner. Zelda immediately took her in, seeming surprised at the woman's appearance. She was of commoner status, but that wasn't what surprised her. It was the fact she didn't look a thing like Alistair. Her hair was a light brown, eyes of a darker shade, and the shape of her face matched nothing on Alistair's. Zelda figured since they had different fathers, there would be little resemblance, but she did not expect absolutely nothing.
“I charge three bits on the bundle, you won’t find better,” the woman continued. “And don’t trust what that Natalia woman tells you either, she’s foreign and she’ll rob you blind.”
“I’m... not here to have any wash done,” Alistair said still sounding timid.
“I didn't think so,” said the woman. “I see no bags full of clothes, nor do I see anything of the sort. So what do you want, then? Wait, you're not with the guard, are you? Cause if you are, you might want to get out now. You already took my oldest son, I'm not letting you take another.” She started to become harsh, readying herself to throw them out if she needed.
“No, no,” Alistair said putting up his hands. “We're not with the guard.”
“If that's so, then what do you want? I have a business to run, you know.”
“Well... here's the thing. My name’s Alistair. I’m... well, this may sound sort of strange, but are you Goldanna? If so, I suppose I’m your brother.”
She stared at him as if he were insane. “My what? I am Goldanna, yes... how do you know my name? What kind of tomfoolery are you folk up to?”
“He's telling the truth,” said Zelda. “I know it might sound odd, but-”
“Sound odd? Ha, how would you like it if a stranger came marching into your home, saying he was your brother?”
“Look, our mother...” Alistair continued. “She worked as a servant in Redcliffe Castle a long time ago, before she died, and-”
“You!” Goldanna's eyes first shot open then narrowed. “I knew it! They told me you was dead! They told me the babe was dead along with Mother, but I knew they was lying!”
“What? They told you I was dead? Who?”
“Them’s at the castle! I told them the babe was the king’s, and they said he was dead. Gave me a coin to shut my mouth and sent me on my way! I knew it! I knew it!”
“Oh, well, I'm not sure why they would say that. The babe obviously didn't die. I'm him. I'm your brother.”
Goldanna scuffed. “And what's that suppose to mean to me? You killed mother, you did. Made her weak and unable to care for you or me.”
“I... killed her?”
“Yes you did. Her labor was rough, they had to cut you out of her. Gave her an infection, it did. She never got over it and died, no thanks to you.” Goldanna placed her hands on her hips. “But that wasn't it. You were giving Mother trouble even long before that. Her whole pregnancy was rough. I tried to convince her to get rid of you, but she wouldn't hear a word of it. She was suffering, but she didn't care because she was doing it for you, and look what you did to her!”
“I... I didn't know.” Alistair looked down at the floor and Zelda could see he was hurt.
“Now hang on just a second,” she said. “That's not Alistair's fault. He was just a baby, and-”
“And who in the Maker’s name are you?” Goldanna snapped at her. “Some tart, following after his riches, I expect? And I suppose the two behind you are the other flavors of the week?”
“I beg your pardon?” Wynne said outraged.
“Hey, don't speak to any of them like that,” Alistair said looking up from the floor. “Especially to her. They're all my friends and she's a Grey Warden, just like I am.”
“Oh, well excuse me,” Goldanna said sarcastic. “A prince and a Grey Warden, too. Well, who am I to think poorly of someone so high and mighty compared to me? I don’t know you, boy. Your royal father forced himself on my mother and took her away from me, and what do I got to show for it? Nothing. They tricked me good! I should have told everyone! I got five mouths to feed, and unless you can help with that, I got less than no use for you.”
Alistair's mouth hung open, unable to say anything to that.
“What are you saying?” said Zelda. “Alistair came here to find his family. You're his sister, why are you treating him like this?”
“Except I'm not his sister,” Goldanna said crossing her arms. “I have no brother. My brother died at the castle with my mother. This man here in front of me is a stranger, someone I don't know and I don't care to know.”
“You're seriously saying this?” Leliana said stunned. “How could you just-”
“And I don't need to explain myself to any of you tarts either. Now, unless you really do have linens to wash, I suggest you get out before I call the guard.”
“But Goldanna, wait...” Alistair tried to reason.
“No, I said get out!” She shoved them all out the door and slammed it in their faces. Alistair stood staring at the door, shock all over him.
“Oh, that irritating woman,” said Leliana. “How dare she!”
“I am so sorry, Alistair,” said Wynne. “If I would've known your sister was going to act like that, then I would've suggested we not go.”
But Alistair wasn't paying attention to either of them. “Did I really kill my mother? Is it really my fault?”
“No it's not,” Zelda said getting in front of him. “That was something you had no control over.”
“No one would have had any control over it,” Wynne added. “It's just how things go sometimes.”
“Exactly,” said Leliana. “I'm sure Goldanna was only saying such things because she's still suffering from the loss of her mother. Don't take her words seriously.”
“I suppose all of you are right,” Alistair said, still looking at Zelda. “But it's just... I've wanted to find my real family my whole life. I finally find it, and... this is what I get? A sister who blames me for our mother's death, and doesn't even care to get to know me? I was so excited, I can’t believe it. I... I guess I was expecting her to accept me without question. Isn’t that what family is supposed to do? I... I feel like a complete idiot.”
Zelda took his hands. “You're not a complete idiot. You went in there looking for something that should've been rightfully yours. But it appears Goldanna is only looking out for herself, just like everyone else is. Maybe that's something you need to learn.”
Alistair gazed into her eyes, and Zelda could tell he was understanding. “You're right, of course you're right. It's something I need to learn. I've been depending on others too much and I was getting ready to depend on her as well. I guess I can't be like that as king, now can I?”
“Not if you don't want to be a good king.”
Alistair squeezed her hands then looked at Wynne and Leliana. “Thank you, everyone, for making me come here. I know it was a disaster, but I needed it. You were right, Wynne. I still would've regretted it if I hadn't come. Now, I think I need to straighten myself out, yes? Can't have the nobles seeing me weak, now can we?”
“Nope,” Zelda said shaking her head. “But don't worry too much, Alistair, you're strong enough.”
“And don't worry about Goldanna, either,” said Leliana. “If she doesn't want to get to know you, then I guess she's out of luck.”
“Right,” Alistair laughed. “Like I need another woman in my life. Let's go.”
***
Arawin was ecstatic. Finally the moment had come, and nothing was going to stop her now. She would kill anybody that did, and that included her friends who ran behind her.
She made her way through the market, ignoring everything around her and only focusing on the gate at the other end. It was still closed, but it wouldn't be closed to her for long.
“Halt, no one is allowed in the alienage,” said the guard as Arawin approached.
“Not to me,” she smiled handing him the pass. The guard took it and stared it over. He was suspicious at first, but eventually gestured for the gate to be opened. Once it was, Arawin wasted no time before darting in.
The alienage was just as she remembered it; broken, dirty, diseased, but it was home. Her home. And she was finally back. She stood in the middle of the street, the stones under her feet wobbled in and out of their place.
“Do you smell that?” she said taking in a deep breath.
“Yeah, it smells like a bronto's backside,” said Oghren.
“That my friend would be the smell of garbage mixed with wet dog topped with mold and sprinkled with decay! Ah, have you ever smelled anything more sweet?”
“Yes, Alistair's cooking,” Morrigan said holding her nose.
“I thought you lived in a swamp?”
“I did, but nothing in the swamp smelled nearly as bad as this place.”
Arawin smirked, not really caring. She was finally where she wanted to be.
“Ah yes, I remember this place,” said Zevran. “Just one thing: Where is everybody?”
Soon Arawin noticed it as well. There were no elves around. No elves lying in the streets passed out drunk, or children running around playing games. In fact it was very quiet, much more than Arawin remembered. There really must be something wrong.
Moving forward, she headed straight to her house, determined to find her father first and get answers. She wanted to find Shianni, but that would have to wait.
Her house was just the same, no change, the door unlocked as she let herself in. “Daddy! Daddy, I'm home!” she called when walking in. Nothing about the house told her something was different. Her father's bed was still in the corner, along with a body laying under the covers. It stirred when she called out, and sat up to see who was at the door.
“Da—Soris?” she said seeing her cousin staring at her. “What the sod are you doing in my father's bed?”
Soris only looked at her with big eyes. His skin went pale as he sprang out of the bed. He slowly walked over to her as if he was unsure of what he was looking at. “Arawin...?” he said slowly. “Is that really you?”
“Yeah Soris, it's me. Did you miss me?” Arawin opened her arms, ready to receive his hug and warm welcome but all she got was a fist to the eye. Soris's expression had changed rather quickly, going from surprised to angry, and he moved faster than she thought possible.
Behind her Oghren laughed. “Ha! That's the same way me and my brother greet each other.”
“Maker's breath, Soris!” Arawin yelled, feeling her eye. “When did you learn to punch? That actually hurt!”
“I hope it did!” Soris yelled. He went to punch her again, but this time Arawin caught his fist.
“Seriously, Soris, do you really think you can take me on? The first time was a lucky hit.”
“You deserve more, you know! Making us think you're dead, yet here you are alive with no warning! You do know what paper and pen are used for, right? You take some paper and a pen, dip it in ink then form words that tell your family you're actually alive and well!”
“Oh, oops. I guess I could've done that.”
“Oops! Is that all you have to say?” Soris ripped his fist from hers, but he didn't make to hit her again.
“I'm sorry, okay, but I've been busy. I don't know if you've noticed, but I have been on a wanted list for awhile. How come you didn't recognize my picture?”
“None of us have seen it because no one has been able to leave the alienage for a long time.” Soris sighed. “Things have been... difficult since you've been gone.”
“Tell me about them, and start with why you're sleeping in my father's bed.”
“I'm sleeping in his bed because I didn't want to sleep in yours. You see, after you left Valora and I got married and it wasn't long after that did the new arl start purging the alienage. I'm not sure of the real reason why he did it. He claimed it was to find the elves responsible for killing Vaughan.”
“But I turned myself in,” Arawin said confused. “And then I was conscripted.”
“Yes, but apparently they didn't believe it was just you. It got so bad that eventually a mob came after me and gave me to the guards. The guards only looked at me and continued on, not really caring if I had done anything or not. After that, Uncle Cyrion said I could stay with him until the heat died down. Almost everyone in the alienage blames me for what's happening, so I've been here for a long time.”
“So what's going on now? There's barely anyone around and it's way too quiet.”
“That, I'm not exactly sure. Shianni says it's some type of plague, spreading through the alienage and effecting a lot of people. Apparently some mages have come here and set up a quarantine. I haven't actually left your house since I got here, so I don't know as much as she does, but...” Soris looked away from his cousin, his eyes beginning to water. Arawin knew there was something more.
“Soris, where's Valora?”
“They took her,” he said still looking away. “I don't think she was sick, though, but they took her anyway, said she was beginning to show the first signs, but...” Soris bite his lower lip. “Arawin... she's pregnant.”
“What? You mean... Soris, that's great! Oh, well I guess it isn't if she's sick. What happened to her? Where did they take her?”
“To the quarantine. It's in a storage building right next to Alarith's shop, you can't miss it. I'm sure there'll be a mob out front, with Shianni protesting like she always does.” He finally looked at her again. “She's become you, you know.”
“Well if anyone was going to fill those shoes, it would be her, but... how's she doing?”
“It you're referring to what happened before you left, then you don't need to worry about her. She's actually become stronger from what I can tell.”
“That's good.” Arawin was glad to hear it, but she still needed to see for herself. “So you said she should be protesting in front of the quarantine?”
“Yeah, I'm sure she's there. Just be careful, her right hook is worse than mine. Left one as well.”
“Oh I know. I taught her, remember? But I'll go and investigate what this plague thing is all about. And I'll also find out what they did with Valora. If she's carrying my future niece or nephew, then there's no way I'm letting anything happen to her.”
At hearing this, Soris leaped and squeezed Arawin in a tight embrace. She felt his tears soak her neck as he cried out his sadness and joy. “Oh Arawin! I'm so glad you're back! You'll make things right, I know you will.”
“Of course your cousin will,” said Zevran. “There are many things she's righted and done since becoming a Grey Warden.”
“Zevran?” Soris said taking his face away from Arawin's neck. “What's going on? I thought-”
“It's a long story,” Arawin said as she gently pushed her cousin away. “And it'll be explained if you like once this situation is dealt with.”
Soris looked from Zevran to Arawin, then to the strange companions standing behind her. She could tell there were questions on his face, but she also could see he wasn't going to ask until it was appropriate. “Alright,” he said straightening himself. “Got get 'em, Arawin. I'll be here waiting.”
Arawin smiled at Soris before turning to leave. It felt great to see him again, but it hurt to hear what he had to go through because of what she had done. Somehow she knew she would make it up to him, and finding Valora and bringing her home would do just that.
They went back out in the street and Arawin made her way over to the center of the alienage. On the way she stopped when she noticed a sick elf on the side of the street. He was curled up, coughing and hacking up phlegm. She studied him, and wondered why such a sick elf would be out here instead of quarantined.
“I sense pseudo magic,” said Morrigan.
“What?”
“Pseudo magic, it's when a mage casts a spell but nothing occurs from it. Mostly used in healing as a placebo. The person feels the spell, but that's all it does.”
“So they're using false magic?” asked Arawin. “Why?”
“I don't know, but there does seem to be some type of reason for the spells.” Morrigan stood still for a moment as she concentrated. “Yes, they seem to be using it as some type of marker, but what the markers mean I'm not sure.”
“So what's really going on here?” Arawin took another look around. “Sick elves out in the streets and false magic being used.” She began making her way again.
The sight of the Vhenadahl soon came into view and around it the answer to her question of where everyone was. A whole mob of elves stood around the tree, facing towards a building marked with a large capital “Q” on the door. Standing in front of the door were several mages, all wearing foreign robes.
“Ah, so that's why I don't understand the spells,” said Morrigan. “They're in Tevinter.”
Arawin scanned the crowd and soon found her. Standing at the edge, trying to reason with a frightened mob, was Shianni.
“I’ve got children at home!” cried an elven woman to the mages. “I can’t wait out here for another day!”
“So go home!” Shianni yelled at her. “The best thing you can do for your children is not trust these charlatans!”
The mages all stood around, apparently used to the cries and pleas being shouted at them. “Everyone remain calm,” said the mage in the middle. From his more fancy robes, Arawin assumed he was the one in charge. “We will help as many as we can today, so long as we can do this in an orderly fashion.”
“Oh, you’re 'helping' us, are you, shem?” Shianni glared up at the mage. “Like Valendrian and my uncle Cyrion and Valora, you helped them, didn’t you? Helped them never to be see again!”
“We are helping them,” said the mage. “Your sister-in-law was very sick and needed immediate care.”
“If that's true, then let me see her.”
“We’ve explained this to you before, girl,” the mage sighed. “More whining will not persuade us to let you into the quarantine to carry plague back out to the alienage. It's for your own safety.”
“Quit trying to get us all killed, Shianni!” said one of the elves from the crowd. “Some of us still have things to live for.”
“Don't even try and reason with her,” said another. “She's no better than that idiot cousin of hers.”
“Except if you knew she was here, you'd be begging her to figure out what's going on,” Shianni shouted back. “I know she would be just as suspicious of these mages as I am. As Valendrian was! Have none of you noticed or even care that he's gone too? Or how about the fact that if this spell of theirs works, why are half the people they quarantined perfectly healthy?”
“And what I want to know,” said Arawin, coming right behind Shianni. “Is why there are very sick elves in the streets?”
Shianni froze then slowly turned around. Her eyes were huge when she looked into Arawin's, making Arawin smirk at her.
“Surprise.”
“Ar-Arawin?” Shianni stuttered. “Maker's breath, I don't believe it!”
“Well believe it, because it's really me. But don't get any smart ideas,” Arawin said holding her hands in front of her. “Soris already got me good in the face. It actually hurt too.”
Shianni narrowed her eyes. “Well you deserved it, but because Soris already hit you, I won't. I'll just do this.” Shianni's foot swiftly came down on top of Arawin's, making her yelp. It got a laugh out of Oghren while Morrigan and Zevran chuckled behind her. Sten even smiled, but it was only a half smile that barely lasted a second.
“Damn, Shianni! Come on now!” Arawin yelled while rubbing her foot.
“You know you shouldn't expect to come home after being assumed dead for so long and be welcomed with open arms. Everyone thought you died with the king, and with no letters or anything, what else were we suppose to think? We even held a funeral. Do you know how heartbroken your father was?”
“Alright, I'm sorry, I know I should've sent word, but I've been busy, Shianni. Very busy! Dealing with a Blight isn't all that easy, you know.”
“I know, I know,” Shianni sighed. “You're a Grey Warden now, so you have more important things to worry about. It's just... there have been so many things that have happened after your wedding... I don't even know where to begin!”
Arawin felt herself grow pale at the mention of her wedding. Not because of the memories that were attached to it, but because Zevran was standing right behind her. She hoped he hadn't heard it.
“So I was right, then,” he whispered, making Arawin cringe. “You were going to be married.”
Damn it. “It's not what you think. It never happened.”
“Left him at the altar, did you?” He sounded like he was trying to joke, but Arawin could hear the hurt underneath. “Not man enough for you, I suppose?”
Arawin ground her teeth. This wasn't something she wanted to talk about right now. “He died.”
Zevran got her hint. “Oh, I'm sorry.”
“Don't be, but we'll talk about it later.”
“Wait,” said Shianni as she peered around Arawin's shoulder. “Zevran, is that you?”
“Hello, Bonita,” Zevran said with charm. “How have you been?”
“Ah, Zevran! I can't believe you came back!” Shianni moved passed Arawin and embraced him. “It's so great to see you again.”
“Same here, Bonita.”
Arawin turned and studied the two. Whatever had happened between them when he was here before, it had obviously left an impression. Arawin just hoped it wasn't one that was going to break Shianni's heart.
“Lots of things have happened since the both of you left,” Shianni said backing away from him and going in between the two. “How I wished either of you had been here.”
“Trust me,” said Zevran. “Your cousin did everything she could to get here. It wasn't easy.”
“Well, I'm glad to see you both, and yes Arawin, I am very happy to see you too, but what I don't understand is why are you together? Did it have something to do with the letter you received before leaving, Zevran?”
“Well, uh...”
“Yes and no,” Arawin answered for him, making Shianni look puzzled. “How about I explain it to you once we get this whole mess situated first?”
“That sounds fair.”
“So tell me what's going on. I already talked to Soris. He said they took Valora into quarantine.”
“Yeah, those mages over there said that a plague has been spreading. They called it blight, because it comes from the darkspawn. The refugees apparently brought it here. The only thing is that this blight has only really spread in the alienage. Not anywhere else in the city. But that's not the only suspicious thing, all the elves they bring into quarantine are perfectly healthy. None of them were sick in any way.”
“Really?” Arawin began to scan the area again, trying to feel the taint. “You know what's even stranger... there's no blight here. I can't feel any taint at all, so this plague they're talking about doesn't exist.”
“That's what I thought,” Shianni said crossing her arms. “Everything was just too suspicious. There's also these spells they said they could cast on people which would keep them from getting sick. That's what this mob is here for. As for Valora, did Soris tell you about her condition?”
“Yeah, he did, and that's why we need to find out what happened to her.”
“At first she was like me, suspicious and refused to get the spell, but when she found out she was pregnant, she wasn't sure anymore. She thought it would be better to be safe than sorry. It was for the baby after all. I volunteered to take her myself since Soris was still in hiding. I wasn't going to get the spell myself, so when it became her turn, they didn't allow me to come in with her. When she went in it didn't take long for me to realize something was wrong. The mages came out, but Valora didn't. I asked them where she was, and they said she was sick.”
“This is just great,” Arawin said shaking her head. “The things that happen when I'm gone.”
“There's more, though,” Shianni said a little timid. “They have you're father too.”
“They what?”
“They took him the day after they took Valora, which was only a few days ago. He wasn't sick either, nor was he going to get the spell cast. He was just walking by the building when all the sudden the mages came running at him, telling him to stop. They yelled that they could feel he was very ill and needed to come with them immediately. I tried to get in to see him as well, even tried breaking in, but I failed obviously. I was never as good of a lock picker as you are.”
Arawin looked at the mages standing in front of the sign. “I think it's time I spoke to them,” she said. “I'll get into that quarantine.”
“Oh I knew you'd do something, Cousin! I always knew you would, but how do you plan on getting in?”
Arawin turned back to Shianni and smiled. “I have been feeling rather down lately. Maybe I should have them check me out.” Turning to the mages again, Arawin made her way through the crowd of elves, along the way preparing herself. She began to cough, gag, soon going to her hands and knees when she got to the mage's feet. She grabbed the robes of the middle mage and pulled on them.
“Please, ser...” she coughed. “Please... help me...”
“What in the world...?” said the mage. “Excuse me, but please don't pull on my robes.” He yanked them out of her hands and straightened them.
“I'm... I'm sick, ser,” Arawin hacked. “Please, you have to help me!”
The mages looked at one another, and Arawin could tell they knew she was faking.
“What are you doing?” said one of the elves in the crowd. “Help her! She's obviously plagued!” This caused all the elves around Arawin to back off, scared she might disease them.
“She's right, get her out of here!” another elf yelled.
“Alright, alright, stay calm,” said the mage. “We can handle this. Just-”
Something fell at Arawin's side and a brief glance allowed her to see Zevran next to her, coughing and gagging as well.
“Help, please... both of us!” he said holding his hand to his throat. He went into a fit of coughs and was even able to hack up a black substance, which sent the elves around them into a frenzy.
“Hessarian’s mercy!” cried the mage. “The both of you really are ill. You should've come to us days ago.”
“We... tried...” Arawin said in a harsh voice. She lowered her head on the mage's foot.
“Alright, come on.” She felt the mages lift her as well as saw them lift Zevran. They took them inside and placed them on the floor.
“What's this? I didn't order you to get me more yet,” said a soldier.
“These two were making a scene,” said the mage. “Thought is best to go ahead and get rid of them. They should put us ahead.”
“Well we did get a new order in. Now get back out there and have it done.”
Arawin could only see feet, not really wanting to look up just yet. The soldier sounded just like the mage, which meant he was also Tevinter. She then looked around and caught Zevran's eyes. They were staring at her, hardened, and telling her to wait.
“Now let's see what we have here. Pick them up.” Rough hands grabbed Arawin and yanked her off the floor. Even rougher hands grabbed her hair and forced her to look the soldier in the face. “So what was it that made you want to come in here so badly?” he asked studying her. “Don't you know what a quarantine means?”
“Yeah, but that's not what you're doing. There's no blight here! Now what have you done with the elves who were supposedly sick?”
“And how would you know there's no blight here, knife-ear?”
“Wait a second, I know her,” said one of the other soldiers. “She's the elven Grey Warden!”
“She is? The one the regent's been looking for? Well now, perhaps you're worth more than I thought.”
“Only if you can keep me.” At the same time, both Arawin and Zevran struck, easily able to escape the soldiers holding them. Fang came out in an arch of fire, burning across the armor of the soldiers, Dar'Misaan right behind as Arawin twirled around, striking at everything. The soldier in charge went after her, his own blade already shiny with blood from long ago. She blocked his attack with Dar'Misaan, while she brought Fang up at the same time to stick in his side. He was ready though, and followed through with his shield, moving Fang aside and going straight for Arawin's chest. She got out of the way, flipping backwards, her foot connecting with his chin. He stumbled back, but recovered quickly to renew his attack. Regaining her footing, Arawin went on the defense as the soldier struck at her with much fury, but she found she was faster. Ducking another blow, she faked a left before striking with Fang on his right. The blade went straight through his armor, melting the metal and his skin. He screamed and backed away.
Arawin took the chance. She brought Fang and Dar'Misaan together. The lightning and flames mixed together, forming a bolt of fire that electrified the air around her. With a sweep, she sent the blades flying forward, the fire bolt leaping off the metal and slicing through the soldier, cutting him completely in half.
“That was interesting,” said Zevran as he sheathed his daggers. A mess of dead soldiers laid on the ground behind him.
“The things you can do with enchantments,” Arawin mused. She smiled at him. “Thanks for helping, even though I could've handled it myself.”
“Oh I know you could,” Zevran smirked. “But after what happened at the estate, I couldn't just let you come in here alone. I wasn't going to let you be taken away again.”
Arawin wiped Fang and Dar'Misaan off before making her way over to a desk in the corner. There she saw some paperwork and picked it up to read. “What is going on here? 'For the next shipment, we need seven males and six females.' What is that suppose to mean? This isn't talking about people, is it?”
Zevran took the paperwork and read it himself. “What else is it suppose to mean? The Tevinters aren't as well known for their dogs as you Fereldens are.”
“Then that means they're slavers.” Arawin ground her teeth and looked around the room. It was completely empty. There weren't even any beds where sick elves might have been placed to rest. She then saw another door, one that looked like it lead to another room. She hurried over to it and found what was inside.
She was completely shocked by what she saw. The elves were in here, all of them caged with some even having bruises on their faces and arms. And just as she suspected, neither of them were tainted with blight.
“Now I'm really glad I came with you,” Zevran said as he joined her side.
The elves noticing the door had opened, stirred. Some of them cringed back but seeing it was Arawin, they looked up hopeful.
“Oh please, let us out,” they cried.
“We're not sick, we swear!”
“I know you're not sick,” said Arawin. “I can tell that you aren't. I'm going to get you out, just hang on.” She ran back to the soldier she had cleaved and searched his lower body before finding the key to the cages. When she came back, she opened them all up, staring at every face as they raced by. She did not see her father or Valora anywhere.
“Wait!” Arawin grabbed one of the elves before he could get away. His entire face was covered in bruises. “Please tell me, have you seen Cyrion Tabris or Valora anywhere?”
“Cyrion? Are you his... Maker's breath, you're alive?”
“Yes I'm alive, now tell me where they took my father!”
“I don't know where they took him, but he was here yesterday with Valora. They took both of them this morning.”
Arawin let him go and he ran out, leaving her disheveled.
“We'll find him,” Zevran said with sympathy. “We're not going to give up on your father.”
“Never,” Arawin growled as she made her way back out the building. The door had been left opened by the escaped elves. When Arawin made it outside, she found the crowd of elves gone with the mages dead on the ground.
“There ya are!” said Oghren as he cleaned off his axe. “You must've caused quite a stir in there cause these robe-wearers were wanting to investigate, but we took care of them for ya.”
“Thanks, Oghren.” Arawin looked around and found Sten standing over a mage, using his robes to clean off his blade. Kunjo was sitting next to him, wagging his tail and panting hard. She spotted Morrigan knelt next to another mage, who appeared to still be alive. Going to her, Arawin noticed Morrigan's eyes glowing black, while a dark light wrapped itself around the mage's body. His face was twisted with pain as he cried and screamed.
“She warned him,” said Oghren. “But the bloke didn't listen.”
After a few tense moments, the mage finally let out a last cry before falling still.
“Well?” Arawin asked when Morrigan stood.
“They're slavers from Tevinter,” the witch said. “They're using the plague as a way to collect slaves. Both Loghain and Howe were behind it, allowing Ferelden citizens to be taken into slavery to pay for the war.”
“So it's true.” Arawin growled, clamping her teeth while crumpling the piece of paper in her hand. “Those bastards! How could they think to do something like this?”
“Arawin... does that mean Valora and my uncle are...?” Shianni was stricken, a sight rarely seen.
“No, they're still here. They've got to be. When were they taken?”
“About four days ago, maybe five.”
“Morrigan?”
“According to the mage I interrogated, the last ship left a week ago. Another one is scheduled to leave tonight.”
“So that means they have to still be here. Where are they taking them?”
“From behind this building through some apartments and to a warehouse on the docks. I could show the way.”
“No need,” Arawin said as she stared at the building. “I know exactly where they are.”
***
Just as she suspected, the Gnawed Noble Tavern was crawling with nobles. Zelda stood in the middle of the entrance way with everyone behind her. She scanned the area, looking and taking in all the nobles there. Some she knew would be on her side no matter what, while others would be faithful to Loghain. But most that she saw, she knew with good enough persuasion would support them in the Landsmeet.
The nobles were unaware of their presence as they walked in. They were within their own worlds, talking about the goings-on. Discussions of the Blight and what was happening in their lands, discussions about the Landsmeet, wondering if the Grey Wardens really did know better than Loghain. They had trusted Loghain so far, and knew he was capable with his past, but darkspawn were different than Orlesians. They also discussed Howe, his death and funeral. It appeared as if no one would be going. Not even his family would come down from Amaranthine.
“So what are we suppose to do?” Alistair whispered.
“We get their attention is what we do,” said Zelda. “And I'm thinking introducing you would be a good start.”
“What? No... no.”
“I bet most of these nobles don't even know who you are, so showing you to them will help. Plus they'll see you really are Maric's son and not just some lunatic claiming that you are.”
“So my days of hiding and staying within shadows is over now, right? Joy.”
Zelda cocked a smile at him. “I think it's time you cast your own shadow. Just leave it to me.”
Zelda went over to the bar and turned around and placed up her hands. “My fellow lords and ladies,” she shouted. “Please, give me your utmost attention only for a short time. I promise once you hear me then you may go back to your own civil conversations.”
All the nobles stopped and looked at her. There were gasps and surprised looks as they saw who was seeking their attention. Whispers of “Is that Zelda Cousland?” and “Grey Warden” could be heard throughout the tavern.
“Please,” Zelda continued. “I know most of you are here and wondering why you came. I'm sure you're wondering why Arl Eamon would call a Landsmeet in the middle of a crisis, when a Blight tares at your lands. I'm sure most of you think Loghain is fine where he sits, that he will get the job done even if it is taking him some time. And I'm sure you're also wondering who this so called 'prince' is that Eamon is supporting to take the throne. Well, I only think it best that you all should be introduced to him. Here, Alistair, young son to the late King Maric has come to take his father's throne in order to deal with the Blight in the way that must be done.”
Zelda gestured for Alistair to come beside her. She at first was afraid he would hesitate which would have been a bad thing for the nobles to see. But instead he came to her right away, standing tall and proud. She was glad to see he was taking the initiative.
“So you are Alistair, then?” said a balding man. He stood up from his booth and went over to examine Alistair more closely.
“Yes I am, ser.”
“You know I knew King Maric very well. He helped to get my lands back from the Orlesians when they took it from my father. I am Bann Sighard of the Dragon's Peak Bannorn and—by the Maker! You really are the spitting image of Maric! I can see it all over your face.”
“You can? Oh, well, of course. People have said that before.”
“So who is your mother, then?”
“Uh...” Alistair looked over at Zelda and she could see he had no idea how to answer the question.
“Alistair's mother was a fine woman,” Zelda said saving him. “And it was after Queen Rowan's death if that is what you're trying to figure.”
“In a way, yes,” said Bann Sighard. “I know Maric loved Rowan but there were... rumors. Ones that said he had an elven lover.”
“My mother was human,” Alistair interjected.
“Then there was another that said not only was she elven, but also a mage.”
“No, she was just a regular human.”
“Bann Sighard, I know you're trying to find out facts, but rumors make poor guides,” said Zelda.
“Don't I know it,” he said looking at her. “Zelda Cousland... You know I never believed the rumors you killed your family. It just didn't seem right. Bryce was also a dear friend of mine, and I'm sorry for your loss. I'm just glad you were able to take your vengeance.”
“Yes...” Zelda said hesitantly. “But I do wish to ask you, ser... Oswyn, your son, did he make it to your estate all right?”
“Oh yes, I nearly forgot! He collapsed at the front door and servants had to drag him in. I was so glad to have finally found him. He had been missing for months. When I saw my poor boy’s legs... I only wish Howe still lived, that I might tear him apart myself. I would bring troops against his sons, but Oswyn tells me Thomas had no part in his father’s depravity and Nathaniel isn't even in Ferelden at the moment. Is there anything you would ask as a reward for saving Oswyn?”
“I only ask that you support us in the Landsmeet. That you support Alistair.”
This made Bann Sighard chuckle. “I figured that was something you would ask. To tell you the truth, young Cousland, I would've probably supported you even if you hadn't have saved Oswyn. Howe had more dark rumors on him than the entire Korcari Wilds. But yes, you will have my support wholeheartedly. And thank you as well for letting me meet the future king. It is always nice to see who I will be voting for.”
Bann Sighard bowed before turning back to his booth. After that more nobles came up to them, looking Alistair over and asking questions. Some said they would give support while others still weren't sure. Alistair may have looked like Maric and may have really been his son, but that didn't mean he would make a good king. Even with Zelda's reassurances, some of the nobles still left with uncertainties.
“They hate me,” Alistair whispered after two banns gave him particularly hard questions which he wasn't able to answer fully.
“They don't hate you completely,” Zelda reassured him. “They're just hesitant. They know Loghain. They don't know you.”
“It's just how politics work,” said Wynne. “And it's something you're going to have to get used to.”
“How could anyone get used to this?” Alistair said grave.
“You will, don't worry,” Zelda said patting his hand.
“Greetings,” said a slightly small woman. She came and bowed to Alistair and Zelda. “I am Bann Alfstanna from the River Bannorn. It is a pleasure to finally meet the man behind the rumors.”
“It is a pleasure as well, my lady,” Alistair said bowing back.
“Bann Alfstanna?” said Leliana. “Zelda... do you think...?”
“Yes,” Zelda nodded.
“Hmm, what is it?” Alfstanna said curiously.
“Your brother, Irminric, wanted me to give you this,” Leliana said as she handed the bann his ring. “He asked that you pray for him.”
“What?” Bann Alfstanna took the ring and gazed at it in disbelief. “What are you talking about? Explain yourself. My brother would no more part with this ring than with his head.”
“That's something you might want to ask Loghain,” said Zelda.
“My brother has been missing for some time. He normally writes me every week, but I haven't heard from him in nearly six months. Does Loghain have something to do with it?”
“Both Loghain and Howe. Irminric was chasing a malificar and captured him when Loghain and Howe took the mage out of his justice and then placed him in the dungeons underneath the Denerim estate.”
“Howe what?” Alfstanna growled. “And... and Loghain just allowed this to happen? Where is my brother now?”
“Still in the dungeons,” said Leliana. “We tried to have him come with us, but he refused.”
Bann Alfstanna nodded. “I was skeptical of you Wardens, and I still am, but I will go and find my brother. If he is still there and tells me what you told me then I guarantee you will have my support. There is no way I would help Loghain in any way now if he truly let this happen.” She bowed her good-bye before taking off out of the tavern.
“So what now?” said Alistair once it appeared all the nobles had at least gotten a look at him.
“Now we wait,” answered Zelda. “They know you now, at least, and we have a better understanding of where we are.” She looked around the room. “Yes, I believe we're in a much better place than we were before. All we need to do now it wait and see what Arawin found in the alienage.”

Paraphrasing from Dragon Age: Origins
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